Born Joseph Foreman, UMPG's Afroman began playing the guitar and writing his own music during his junior high school days. Growing up in East Palmdale, Los Angeles, he began performing on the streets, at small parties, and open mic nights in attempt to receive recognition. Influenced by Too Short and 2 Live Crew, he released his first indie album, Sell Your Dope, in November 1999. Disenchanted with Los Angeles, he moved to Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where he decided to expand his live show beyond himself and a backing tape. Afroman continued on vocals and guitar bringing in a drummer and a bassist/keyboardist. In spring of 2000, Afroman worked with local producer Tim Ramenofsky on his next song, “Because I Got High,” which instantly became an anthem at local fraternity parties. Universal Records signed him to a deal. Released on August 28, 2001, The Good Times (Universal), has sold more than a million copies worldwide. His single, “Because I Got High,” sold approximately 2 million copies and topped world charts, including No. 1’s in the U.K., Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand.